After another loss, Alas Girls aim to end U17 Worlds on high note

MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas Girls fell to Venezuela anew, 22-25, 15-25, 25-20, 22-25, in the classification round of the FIVB Girls’ U17 World Championship on Sunday in Santiago, Chile.

The young Nationals tried to pull off another spirited rally after bagging the third set, but the Venezuelans refused to be dragged to a decider this time, as they advanced to the battle for 13th place against Peru.

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Amanda Pacheco Gonzales powered Venezuela with 17 points on 15 kills, one block, and an ace. Yalesca Colina Lezama backstopped her with 15 points, while Fabianny Carima added 11.

In their first meeting back in the preliminary round, Alas booked a round-of-16 spot after going the distance against Venezuela despite the 19-25, 16-25, 25-22, 25-19, 11-15 loss.

Alas was led by Xyz Rayco, who tallied 15 points off 11 spikes, three aces, and a block. Caera Celis added 14 points.

Jello Mauricio stepped up with nine points, while Megan Hernandez, Madele Gale, and Jhaynna Bulandres chipped in five each.

The Philippines ends its world stint against Czechia in the battle for 15th place on Monday, hoping to stop a five-game losing streak.